local wildlife

Just a quick look at our recent nature opportunities.  We had fun waiting for our monarch caterpillar to hatch from it's cocoon.  We actually missed the actaul moment it emerged but we had fun holding it while it got it's strength together.  Here is Jaybird showing off his new buddy - it actually stayed around us for over an hour.

Now you have to look really closely but here is Spiderman holding a cool spotted salamander we found out back.  That's the first one we've ever found here and I was glad to see the boys were both interesed in holding and examining it -though the girls kept their safe distance. 

 

Here is Goose trying her hand at milking a cow.  She had been bugging me for a year or so about wanting to milk a cow and we finally had our chance.  All the kids gave it a shot and figured out the proper technique.  We were really put to shame when Mr. Noe took hold and did some serious milking in very little time.  Very impressive.  The kids tried some fresh, warm milk but decided they prefer it cold!  The Noes were nice enough to send our milk home with us so we could enjoy it for the next few days.

The Budding Chefs

As part of a summer experiment and teaching opportunity, we decided to have each of the kids try their hand at playing chef (planning and preparing the meal for the family).  They had to choose what to make, check the pantry for ingredients, make a shopping list for what was missing and then prrepare and serve the meal on their night.  Each week, we had a night where it was someone elses turn.  They loved it!

Goose went first and planned a big meal of chicken lasagna, garlic bread and jello parfaits.  It was all delicious but I forgot to take any photos.  Silly me.

Spiderman here chose homemade pizza, fruit salad, and this cake for dessert.  They relished every step, from what to make and how to prepare it.  Can you see the big smile?

Jaybird chose to BBQ for his meal and you can see the hot dogs and burgers sizzling on the grill.  He paired that with chips and salsa and pumpking pie (his favorite dessert).  Oh the power he weilds with those tongs...

Boo had a more creative touch with her meal plans.  You can see her showing off her ocean themed seashell mac and cheese topped with octo-dogs.  Finish that off with a big bowl of dirt and worms (chocolate and gummy respectively) for dessert and we all felt like kids again. 

GOOD JOB KIDS!